A Framework for Executable UML Models

One approach to support the creation of executable UML models is to utilize an existing DEVS simulation environment. The Discrete EVent System Specification (DEVS) formalism excels at modeling complex discrete event systems. An approach to specifying DEVS-compliant models is presented via Unified Modeling Language (UML) state machines. Resultant UML models are executable within DEVS simulation frameworks such as DEVSJAVA. Constructing DEVS-compliant UML models enables early simulation and verification of a design. This paper outlines how the specifics of simulation can be naturally expressed in UML models without significant burden to the UML practitioner.